Gross told The Associated Press Wednesday that "the Panthers and I came to an agreement that everyone was happy with and allowed me to continue my career in Carolina. ... I wanted to be a Panther and this contract echoes that sentiment."

Gross' new deal is worth $5.5 million in 2013 and will void out after the season, making him a free agent.

That's significantly less than the 10-year veteran was scheduled to make the next two seasons.

The two-time Pro Bowl selection was scheduled to earn $8.7 million this year and $6.7 million in 2014.

The move frees up $3.2 million for the Panthers under this year's salary cap.